Irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that never fails to impress. With its crispy, golden exterior and creamy, slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that can easily double as a main dish. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a special treat, this recipe brings restaurant-quality shrimp to your kitchen. The combination of crispy panko-breaded shrimp and the iconic sauce with a hint of garlic chili spice makes it unforgettable. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be on your table in under 40 minutes!

 

Ingredients

For Shrimp Breading and Seasoning:

• 25 shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon red pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil spray

For Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 teaspoons garlic chili sauce
• ½ teaspoon rice vinegar

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic chili sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more chili sauce if desired.
3. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

1. In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, red pepper, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried basil. Mix well.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk together until combined.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres well.
2. Dip each shrimp into the egg and milk mixture, then coat it thoroughly in the breading mixture. Press lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

• For Air Fryer:
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
  3. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  4. Lightly spray the shrimp with olive oil for extra crispiness.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
• For Stovetop:
  1. Heat a skillet with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Place the cooked shrimp on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work well if thawed and dried thoroughly.
• For an extra-crispy coating, double dip the shrimp by repeating the egg and breading process.
• If you prefer a lighter version, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

 

Bang Bang Shrimp is a versatile recipe that combines crispy textures with bold, zesty flavors. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or enjoying it as a main course, this dish is sure to delight anyone who tries it. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant home and enjoy this delectable treat with family and friends.

Give this recipe a try, and let the explosion of flavors take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey!